By Abdullahi Idris, Dutse …As Government Expands Upland Irrigation Projects Across Jigawa In a significant step toward enhancing...
By Abdullahi Idris, Dutse
…As Government Expands Upland Irrigation Projects Across Jigawa
In a significant step toward enhancing food security and improving livelihoods, Governor Umar Namadi has commissioned the Lallashi Borehole-Based Irrigation Scheme in Maigatari Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
The project, powered by solar energy and utilizing semi-conduit and drip irrigation techniques, marks a major milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to modernize agriculture and promote year-round farming.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Governor Namadi described the project as "a clear demonstration of our administration’s commitment to achieving food security, providing sustainable livelihoods, and reducing poverty among our people."
He reiterated that one of the key priorities of his administration’s 12-Point Agenda is the full exploitation of Jigawa’s agricultural potential through year-round farming. He noted that deliberate efforts are being made to rehabilitate and expand irrigation facilities across the state, including both dams and borehole-based irrigation schemes.
"Many of you will recall that one of our major policy declarations under the 12-Point Agenda is to fully utilize our vast agricultural potential by ensuring all-year-round production through the cultivation of more of our rich farmland," the governor stated.
The Lallashi irrigation scheme covers 10 hectares of farmland, supported by four industrial boreholes. Over 80 smallholder farmers are already benefiting from the project, which is expected to significantly boost crop yields and create economic opportunities for local communities.
Governor Namadi also announced that similar projects are nearing completion in Kafin Hausa and Birniwa Local Government Areas and will soon be commissioned.
“The Lallashi project covers 10 hectares, powered by solar energy and utilizing semi-conduit and drip irrigation techniques. Currently, over 80 smallholder farmers are actively cultivating the land. Similar projects in Kafin Hausa and Birniwa are at advanced stages and will soon be completed, In Shaa Allah,” he added.
To further enhance upland irrigation, the governor revealed that the 2025 budget includes funding for additional borehole-based irrigation schemes in Gumel, Sule Tankarkar, and Gagarawa local government areas.
“For too long, farmers in these areas have relied solely on seasonal rainfall, limiting both food production and income generation. With this borehole-based irrigation system, we are transforming that reality. This intervention will empower farmers to farm all year round, increase yields, and open up new economic opportunities for the people of Lallashi and beyond,” Governor Namadi said.
He emphasized that agriculture remains the backbone of Jigawa’s economy, and his administration is committed to implementing long-term reforms, including the modernization and expansion of irrigation facilities across the state.
“This scheme is not a standalone project; it is part of our broader vision to ensure that more communities have access to reliable water sources for farming,” the governor concluded.
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